Wiradjuri student named first UQ Medical Society Indigenous Officer

Melissa Carroll will use this week’s NAIDOC celebrations at Musgrave Park to further cement her role engaging and advocating for UQ’s current and future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

“I have been fortunate to have been surrounded by an inspiring group of people who encouraged me to consider options and to never be satisfied with black and white, or that age should not prevent me from reaching my potential,” said Ms Carroll.

It was this support that led her to return to university as a mature-aged student to qualify as a medical doctor.

“Thinking back, I would only dream about one day being a doctor, it seemed such a distant life to the one I was used to,” said Ms Carroll.

“Through my own challenges and observing those of my peers, I have come to see the importance of encouraging and supporting our colleagues through their journey and inspiring the next generation of potential doctors.

“Mentoring is something I feel very passionate about and feel that, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, it is paramount that we take on a holistic approach to our studies addressing the academic requirements but also our social and emotional wellbeing.”